For some people there is nothing like a day in the outdoors. You get to forget about all of your troubles and get some great exercise while checking out some of the area's best scenic spots. Those lucky enough to be living in the Hampton area have a wealth of natural sites to see and parks to choose from. So, if you're looking to escape on your weekend far away from your job at the lead ballast factory or are just interested in a couple of areas out in the sun, check out this guide to some of the best attractions provided by Hampton's parks and recreation division.

A list and maps of the parks and nature trails operated by the city are displayed on the Parks and Recreation website. You can search by zip code to see what's in the vicinity of your house or check out the park of your choosing by scrolling through an alphabetical list. There is also information about the waterfront park areas and those with sports and fitness facilities. Instead of heading all the way out of town to get some exercise at a womens hockey tournament you could stay right here in the city and head to Darling Stadium or Boo Williams Sportsplex. There are also many soccer fields operated by the city and even a few skateboarding parks.

With golf, tennis, and various water sports to choose from, there is always something fun and active to do in Hampton during the warmer months. The Parks and Recreation Department even offers many activities where you can combine some learning in with your nature experience. You could head out to the Grundland Creek Park with the whole family for the Outdoor Recreation Open House and try the Alpine Tower Ropes Course or go stargazing and see if you can spot any constellations. You could even join a cricket club or baseball team.

Parks and Recreation also offers a variety of programs specifically for children and teens. Between their part-time job with craft services, Toronto holidays and school, your kids could take part in the Teens as Community Builders program or one of the many enrichment classes. Afterschool programs even give students a chance to catch up on their homework in a comfortable learning environment.

A great way to get involved in your community is with Parks and Recreation events. Instead of spending the day at a day spa Atlanta you could take part in the 400,000 Pound Challenge promoting a healthy lifestyle or the Hampton Holly Days Parade. The possibilities really are endless when it comes to experiencing the parkland of Hampton, Virginia.